Back to Basics: Using the DSM-5 to Benefit Clients

Abstract

It is a pleasure to introduce this special DSM-5 edition of The Professional Counselor, which provides a solid primer regarding changes in the DSM-5 diagnosis process and how these changes will likely impact mental health professionals. Changes within the DSM-5 have prompted counselors to revisit the basics of diagnosis and consider the cessation of certain conventions (e.g., the multiaxial system) and what these changes mean to counselors as they perform their vital work for the benefit of clients. The unprecedented inclusion of various mental health professionals in the development of the DSM-5 is an inherent recognition of how this tool is being used across a wide range of professional disciplines that focus on psychopathology. I hope these articles not only inform, but encourage further research into the practical use of the DSM-5, "stimulate new clinical perspectives" in mental illness (American Psychiatric Association [APA], 2013, p. 10), and inspire continued professional dialogue around DSM nosology and the diagnostic processes.

Unravelling the Role of the Dopamine D1 Receptor in Anhedonia, Asociality, and Avolition

“…and an individual must have five (or more) of these symptoms present for a minimum of two consecutive weeks to meet diagnostic criteria (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). This approach provides clinicians with a standardised tool to diagnose disorders and establishes a common language which promotes consistency and reliability across clinical practices globally (American Psychiatric Association, 2013;Buckley, 2014;van Heugtenvan der Kloet & van Heugten, 2015). Although the DSM and ICD aim to provide a standardised tool for diagnosis, there are critical limitations that are discussed in the next section.…”